Themes of politics and power in relation to The Ring Cycle were explored at a recent ROH Insights session. Participating in the discussion were former Conservative minister Michael Portillo, political columnist Matthew d’Ancona and Assistant Editor of the GuardianMartin Kettle.

Chairing the session, BBC Radio 4’s Ritula Shah asked the trio about the character of Wotan, viewing the cycle as a reflection of political ideology, and the misappropriation and misunderstanding of Wagner’s work by the Nazis.

Looking at the work through a prism of politics, Martin Kettle commented that he believed “In some sense Wotan is a dictator. He’s very recognizable politically”. Matthew d’Ancona added that the character reminds him of a remark by Bill Clinton: “Anyone in office will pay a huge price”. Michael Portillo also refuted the idea that the work is a hymn to power: “How the Nazis picked up on The Ring is puzzling – everyone who holds power in it is destroyed.”

Listen to highlights of the event:

This session is one of a number of events on The Ring Cycle. Upcoming events on themes of nature, love and redemption will be live-tweeted during sessions with highlights available online afterwards.